Work Abroad: Norway to English Language Jobs

Norway's breathtaking natural beauty, world-famous fjords, and magnificent Northern Lights make it a dream destination for many aspiring English teachers. However, finding a teaching position in this Scandinavian country is no easy feat. If you're considering teaching English in Norway, here's what you need to know:

Why is it so difficult to find a job as an English teacher in Norway?

The main problem is that most Norwegians already speak English very well. In fact, up to 90% of the population has some level of English proficiency. This means that the demand for English teachers is nowhere near as high here as in other countries where English is less widely spoken.

Furthermore, many teaching positions, particularly in public schools, are often filled by Norwegians who are fluent in both Norwegian and English. Hiring a foreigner involves a lot of paperwork and expense, which is why schools tend to favor candidates already in the country. For many learners, especially younger students, the challenge lies in moving beyond conversational skills to mastering more formal or academic registers when translating ideas from English to Norway’s education system.

Do you need to speak Norwegian to find a job?

In many cases, yes. Teachers in public schools and kindergartens often need to be fluent in both Norwegian and English. Indeed, they communicate with students, parents, and colleagues in the local language.

However, for a position in a private or international school, knowledge of Norwegian is not always required. English is often the primary language of instruction. In fact, some schools actively encourage teachers who can help students navigate the transition from English to Norway’s bilingual academic setting.

What qualifications are needed to teach English in Norway?

Norway has high standards for teaching. For most English teaching positions, you will need:

TEFL or TESOL certification

A university degree (preferably in education or English)

Teaching experience, ideally at least one year

Additional skills, such as teaching another subject (math, science, etc.), experience in special education, or a master's degree, can be an asset, especially when applying for positions in international schools.

Where to find the best jobs?

When looking for teaching opportunities in Norway, don't focus solely on large cities like Oslo or Bergen. These regions are highly competitive and have more locals who are fluent in English and interested in filling positions.

Smaller towns and rural areas, on the other hand, may offer better opportunities simply because they have fewer qualified native English speakers. International candidates may be more likely to be hired there if they meet the required criteria.

International schools should also be considered. They value teaching experience and high qualifications and are more likely to recruit foreign teachers.

Why are English teachers still in demand in a country where most Norwegians already speak English?

Good question! Although Norwegians speak English well, there is still a need for teachers in certain areas:

International schools offering English-taught programs

Advanced academic English or exam preparation (such as the IELTS or TOEFL)

Business English for professionals in international companies

Private tutoring for students wishing to improve their language skills or prepare for study abroad

In these cases, native-level English language skills and professional teaching skills are always in demand. The ability to contextualize lessons from English to Norway’s cultural and professional environments is what often makes foreign teachers valuable.

Teaching English in Norway isn't the easiest path, but it can be extremely lucrative for the right candidate. If you have experience, are highly skilled, and are willing to explore less competitive locations, you can find your place in one of the most beautiful countries in the world.